SSL certificate: All you need to know to improve your website security
While surfing the internet as a new website owner or user, we are sure you have probably noticed how various sites have initial address variations, i.e., HTTPS://, while some have HTTP://.
Have you ever wondered the difference the 's' in HTTPS:// makes and why some sites have it, and some don't?
It's pretty simple !
The 's' in the HTTP:// stands for security.
Owning a website can be a huge responsibility when it comes down to management and website security. Web security is exceptionally vital as users would like their information to be safe and secure on your site without a bridge in their privacy. Improved website security encourages users to sign up to your site, share information on your site, and enhance general site traffic.
What does 'S' mean?
The 's' in the HTTP://stands for security; it’s a short notation for SSL (secure socket layer). The SSL is a security protocol that encourages encrypted internet communication between web servers/browsers while encouraging server communication.
That's how significant a single 's' can be. The acquisition of an SSL certificate is what transitions a web address from HTTP to HTTPS. Sites that have been SSL certified usually have green padlocks at the address bar for laptop and desktop users. For Android users, the padlock may be black; it all means the same thing.
Is this necessary?
Yes. Extremely. The existence of this 's' or this padlock is vital to the security of information exchanged while using the particular website. As a web owner or web user, if you cannot ascertain the safety of the website you're surfing, you're at high risk.
This article will be carefully outlining ways of transitioning from an HTTP website owner to an HTTPS website owner. I'll also be sharing useful tips on protecting yourself as a user if your favorite website is unprotected. I will also be sharing tips on how to know if the site is certified at a glance. Remember, your security is very vital.
What is an SSL certificate?
SSL certificate is a digital certificate installed on website servers that verifies a website’s identity and encrypts users’ data ( sensitive information) from being stolen by hackers and identity thieves.
An SSL certificate gives assurance on the legitimacy of a website. It ensures user privacy and reduces the risk of third party involvement in internet communication/ transactions. A valid SSL certificate must include;
Name of the person obtaining the certificate
Serial number and expiration date of the certificate
Copy of the certificate owners public key
A digital signature of web owner on certificate
Even without seeing a certificate, if a website has a green padlock in its address bar, it's SSL certified.
The URL will also include an HTTPS:// and secure will also be on the address bar to further assure you, although it depends on the type of browser used.
Do I need to acquire an SSL certificate?
Maybe. Although having an SSL certificate is vital for a website owner, it greatly depends on the type of website involved. Your budget as a web owner or your idea for your web (plans- if your site would keep being a mini-site or you would eventually advance) can equally be a factor to consider.
Is your website a membership site?
Do you offer free or paid site membership that needs users to input login information, financial information, e.g., credit or debit card information and bank account? Or are personal information
such as home addresses, date of birth, etc., required?
If your site requires any of this type of documentation, you certainly need an SSL certificate installed to your site. This certificate will keep your subscribers' information encrypted and enable active participation on-site without fear of privacy invasion.
Is your website a sales site?
Do you sell digital materials? Or do you run an online shop that would require users to make transactions with their debit or credit cards? If so, an SSL certificate is of extreme importance.
No one would want to reveal his or her account information (atm information/ pins) on-site that are not secured.
When a client’s private information gets hacked on your site, This may affect your e-commerce business and can result in long term damage or a total short down of the website due to lack of traffic and complaints.
An SSL certificate is not required for all the site pages but is very necessary for the store page and checkout page. Even at this, complete site security would boost more patronage and trust from customers/ clients.
Is your website a simple blog or a mini-website about Guffey stuff?
For a simple blog site with the necessary information with no membership or purchase needs, an SSL certificate is not required. It's because there is no exchange of information between the site and users. But if you ever consider making money from your blog through sales, it's vital to obtain a certification.
Reasons why you need to install an SSL certificate to your site
Security
Do users look out for secured sites? Most definitely. Out of 100 internet users, at least 80 of these users checkout for site security when surfing the internet. Due to increasing rates of cybercrimes, no one wants an invasion of privacy. You wouldn't want your website to be reported or brought down, would you?
A site without security is like a house without a roof. No matter how beautifully painted the house can be, no one would want to be associated with it. This is precisely how clients react to sites with no security.
Boost in Google and SEO ranking
Website security has become one of the boosts in google ranking in recent times, although it would only be a minimal boost compared to all other google rank boosters.
The good news is, this applies to all sites. Whether your site has a login page, store page, or any data collection page doesn't matter. If you install an SSL certificate on your site, you can get SEO benefits.
It can help you get this boost without having to go through the huddle of building backlinks and testing page content for an SEO boost. SEO boost is google's way of supporting website owners to improve site security.
Future Purposes
If you have a simple blog right now, in a few years, you may decide to expand to e-commerce, tutoring, eLearning, fitness sites, etc. Having an SSL certificate now would aid smooth transitioning, although it wouldn't be late if you decide to get one later in life.
A must in this era
As of 2018, Google began flagging off sites with zero user security, i.e., sites without SSL certification. It is not only for purchase sites or membership sites but all sites on the internet. If you are a website owner, SSL certification isn't hard to get once you're on the right track.
At this point, you may be considering getting an SSL certificate for your website. There are a couple of things you need to put into consideration before purchasing an SSL certificate. It's essential to know the type of certification that suits your site, the type of verification required, and trusted places to buy SSL certificates.
Different types of SSL certificates
There is a wide range of SSL certificates to pick from as a website owner; single domain, multi-domain, wild card, and multi-domain wildcard SSL certificate. I will be giving you a little guide on preferred SSL certificates to purchase based on the nature of your site.
Single domain
This type of SSL certification is suitable for small businesses, blogs, or personal websites. It's for the accreditation of one fully qualified domain name on a single certificate. That's to say, the security of available domain SSL certificate will only secure pages for
www. privacysavy.com, which makes it very suitable for small websites.
Multi-domain
This type of SSL certificate allows the management of multiple domain names with a single certificate. It is suitable for larger websites or websites that provide services as a single certificate wouldn't be enough to secure the website. Larger sites have multiple domains to connect, e.g., their client portal.
It gives room for the inclusion of numerous clients' domains into a single certificate, making it easy for website owners to ensure all their users’ security. It makes tracking of certificate expiration easy and saves cost when compared to the purchase of multiple single SSL certificates.
Wild card
A wildcard SSL certificate cuts the cost of securing multiple subdomains for larger sites. This type of SSL certificate is suitable for membership sites where subdomains such as logins, portals, etc., are required. Obtaining a wild card will make it easy for the security to be maintained, and it's very cost-effective for website owners compared to purchasing lots of multiple domain SSL certificates to manage each of these services.
It allows security no matter the number of servers used by the website, e.g. 'www.privacysavvy.com.' 'user.privacysavvy.com' 'forum.privacysavy.com'
Multi-domain Wildcard SSL certificate
This type of certificate is also a suitable option for large websites. It helps to manage the security of multiple subdomains and multiple domains under a single SSL certificate.
Other than these four different SSL certificates, we also have a shared SSL certificate. However, this certificate is widely available and is free; it's not recommendable. The URL of sites using such certification wouldn't be the usual URL known by your site viewers and is usually not browser friendly.
Level of validation needed by your site
The SSL certificate has three validates
Domain Validation
This level covers primary verification and encryption of domain name registration. It's cost-effective and effortless to purchase as it takes only a few minutes to buy. It protects with no ties to the owner of the site. It's suitable for sites that don't collect personal information, e.g., small blogs.
Organisation Validation
Personal information of the owner is going validated, unlike the domain Validation. It takes longer than the domain validation as it can take hours or days. It's suitable for companies/ web owners who require certification on budget.
Extended validation
Lots of security procedures are required to obtain validation. All aspects of the site are validated and may take several weeks to receive. Insurance processes and criteria are followed according to the SSL certificate industry's governing consortium.
Trusted sites to obtain an SSL certificate
Currently, there are lots of sites that have full approval to give SSL certificates.
But I would list a few that I'm familiar with and their prices.
GoDaddy
This web hosting provider has gradually dived into the SSL certificate field. GoDaddy has an impressive price structure and offers domain validation, organisational validation, and extended validation certificates at low prices.
The price structure is broken down based on site structure - single site, multiple-site, or domain with complete subdomain coverage.
GoDaddy is relatively cheap on the first instalment but becomes more expensive on renewal.
To minimise cost, fresh instalments each year are highly recommended.
SSL store, which includes Comodo SSL, RapidSSL
SSL stores cover a lot of subsurface providers such as Comodo SSL etc., as mentioned above. This store dates as far back as 2009 and has been building quite a reputation.
A standard domain validations subscription is $14.95/per year.
Organisational validation is at $30.40, while the extended validation is at $59.99.
The main advantage of this provider is its ability to cut across various CAs all at once. It equally has a partnership with reputable CAs in the world. The SSL store is the most cost-effective SSL certificate provider and has a 30 days refund guarantee. So If you purchase this certificate and issues due to providers error occurs, return.
Digicert
This SSL certificate provider makes use of critical public infrastructure after an acquisition by Norton's website security in 2017. A simple SSL certificate starts for $208 per year but comes with a price discount if two years is purchased.
Its wildcard SSL certificate covers multiple servers, and domains are obtained at $653 per year. Although Digicert is an attractive provider due to its wildcard subscription, it's initial subscription isn't cheap
GeoTrust
GeoTrust services cover SSL certificates, signing services, and the provision of SSL for enterprises.
Verisign formerly owned GeoTrust, then was signed to Norton before its acquisition by Digicert. The SSL certificate issued by GeoTrust is extensive as services range from domain level to extended level certification.
Prices of GeoTrust services are quite expensive because their benefits are mainly for businesses and enterprises. The identity check/ validation process takes longer than other sites as through validation occurs. Its primary business ID goes for $87/ year.
Entrust Datacard
Entrust has gained a reputation since 1994, and it's a US-based SSL certificate provider. Here, clients are allowed to manage a large number of domains across multiple certificates. Their primary product price starts from $199. Its standard SSL single site is $699 for wildcard SSL.
Network Solution
This internet service provider offers a wide variety of network solutions- domain name, e-commerce services, and SSL certificate.
Although SSL certificate services aren't their main area, they offer cost-effective prices to attract clients. This network sometimes requires a lot of guidance to set up.
For essential SSL subscription is $59.99, the EV is $399.5/year. Validation doesn't take so much time but requires a few hours or five days.
These are the top six in my category. But our main focus on this article will be the GoDaddy provider. I will discuss the details further in this article.
Price of an SSL certificate
The price of an SSL certificate depends on where you are purchasing your certificate. SSL certificate prices range from free to hundreds of dollars. Other than the place of purchase, the type of certification you're purchasing also determines the price.
Cheaper SSL certificates usually offer the same level of security when compared to expensive or branded SSL certificates. If you own a simple blog or website, going for a cheaper SSL certificate is ideal. For large eCommerce websites, costly and branded SSL certificates are most suitable because branded SSL certificate issuing companies have reputable records.
Although in the form of security, there is no difference between a free SSL certificate and a paid one, the level of validation and warranty varies. Most free SSL certificates only cover domain validation and usually have no warranty. Paid SSL certificates cover everything.
GoDaddy SSL certificate provider
Ready to purchase your SSL certificate? You're certainly on the right track. I would write a little review on my all-time SSL certificate provider GoDaddy and why we think GoDaddy SSL certificates are worth the purchase.
GoDaddy
They are popularly known as a domain registrar with the highest and most mind-blowing fresher's discount. GoDaddy offers SSL certificates to help site owners set up their site security. With over 20 years of reputable service in the internet industry, GoDaddy is one of the fastest revolving internet service companies. Its impressive solutions, strong brand reputation, and SEO ranking boost benefit have made GoDaddy highly recommendable and attractive.
Benefits
Provides supreme internet security with premium security is mainly for business sites. They make use of PCI-DSS, GDPR, and lots of standards to ensure this.
They offer a significant boost in the SEO ranking of your site, which means that GoDaddy helps cut down all the stress attached to backlinking. Note: although there is a significant boost of SEO ranking with GoDaddy, backlinks are still necessary as the increase may not be significant
Very cost-effective with massive cash slash for first-timers. As a new website aiming to purchase SSL certificates, GoDaddy provides a discount for use.
Provide a secure medium for protected online and mobile payments as end-to-end cryptography are involved.
Features
Padlock in the address bar
Secures multiple servers
Has a safety seal display. That means anybody visiting your site would easily see your site as secure
It has express customer/security support
Has a massive liability Protection budget.
It makes use of SHA & 2 & 2048 bit encryption.
Has a 30 days risk-free Refund policy.
It is compatible with various browsers and mobile devices.
Price of GoDaddy SSL certificates
Managed SSL services - £149.99 / year
Wildcard SSL - £229.99/year
Basic domain validation - £63.99/year
Extended validation - £159.99/ year.
Terms of SSL certificate - GoDaddy
If you're interested in using GoDaddy SSL certificate services, there are essential terms of services that should be brought to awareness
13 months life span
Quite shocking right?
The GoDaddy SSL certificate provider began this new 13-month certificate lifespan policy on 1st September 2020. Heartbreaking indeed.
For some reason, this policy has made this provider even more attractive if the cost factor is out.
This 13 months longevity significantly shows that GoDaddy is always on standby and continually evolving at an equal pace with the internet to keep your website protected.
SSL certificates with long renewal intervals are at high risk of a security bridge. In simple terms, long certificate renewal intervals result in less secure certifications.
Other than this, a short validity makes this website more attractive to clients. Clients/ visitors become more confident to trust your site as it would reduce concerns on the privacy bridge.
As a web user, a site with an SSL certificate of about two to three years creates a feeling of insecurity. Mainly because as rapidly as encryptions come up, hackers are equally rapidly learning to enhance skills.
Periodic certification also shows seriousness on the part of site owners. SSL certificate allows for confirmation of the site owner. Which further boosts clients’ confidence as they are aware of the person behind the transaction.
But if you are already a user of the GoDaddy SSL certificate, if you purchased your certificate before the 13 months lifespan policy became official, don't panic.
This new term doesn't apply to you until your present certificate reaches the expiry date stated on the certificate.
Extended purchase
GoDaddy gives room for extended SSL certificate purchase. Extended purchase means that as a site owner, you can pay for a long duration. All you need to do is to reissue and install your certificate each year to a significant new plan.
How SSL certificate works
SSL certificate works on the principle of connecting and triggering.
The principle simply means that after installing the SSL certificate to a server, the connection of a browser triggers the SSL to action where encryption of the information takes place. Therefore the SSL certificate can't function if a browser and a server don't interact.
The SSL works as coverage for transmission protocol as it provides a high layer to protect transmission while an encrypted connection occurs.
It serves as an internet filter that prevents the accessibility and readability of hackers and identity thieves.
Which means they (hackers) cannot read your information transmitted but can see the sites you're connected to. This coverage makes surfing your favourite website convenient.
Private information, such as credit or debit card information, is well concealed. This benefit is the primary reason why sales sites require SSL certification.
SSL certificates are on websites and blogs and required for social network sites - Facebook, WeChat, Twitter, Instagram, etc.
Which means all your personal information on social sites that are SSL certified are protected.
These sites use high-level encryption algorithms to protect data shared on their sites that are either via private chats, forums, or group conversations.
This encryption equally protects files shared on sites and webmail servers. SSL certificate makes use of two-way encryption, server encryption, and browser decryption for transmission. Therefore, decryption is unique to the browser as they randomly generate codes that can only be decrypted by itself.
Third parties are not open to this cryptography, which makes hacking impossible.
For additional security, a subscription to a VPN service can help with full encryption of online activities, including your connection. Third parties are locked out as they not only have no access to your information but can equally not monitor your links.
Note: the presence of a VPN can also help protect your information from being hijacked if you connect to a public server, e.g., public hotspots
Check out the list of top VPN recommendations for use by privacy savvy here.
Proper ways to Install your SSL certificate after a successful purchase
We are finally at the best part. Getting an SSL certificate can be pretty exciting but setting the whole process may not be easy.
So, I would be showing the necessary steps to get you money working in no time.
First off, there are three significant necessities before installation begins.
Note: for multiple servers, you would have to install certificates repeatedly to each server till security is sure.
The SSL certificate must
Have already been sent to your email. If it hasn't, there is no need to panic. Simply go to your account dashboard and download it into your device.
Ensure to get your CA bundle.
Usually, when downloading SSL certificates, they appear as zip files/folders. If you unlock this zip folder, there are other sub-documents inside known as intermediates. Sometimes not all SSL certificates come with intermediates. If yours doesn't, download a suitable bundle for your certification.
You automatically have a private key.
You may have noticed it. But if you haven't, don't be bothered. Your server can automatically track it.
Installation instructions
Sign in to your web host manager. Sometimes signing in to your web host manager can prove to be a bit difficult as you may be redirected to an error page. If this happens, disregard the error and proceed with the procedure. You can reload if an error occurs and try the sign-in process again. Enter your password and username and wait to be redirected to the homepage.
Click on SSL/ TLS (another name for SSL)
Locate the box 'install an SSL certificate on a domain' and click on it.
Fill in your domain on the domain field on the next page.
Note: the domain name filled here is the one you want to link to this SSL certificate.
Copy and paste your Certificate file on the provided box and fill all other appropriate spaces available; certificate, private key, and certificate authority bundle.
Once all fields are correctly Filled, click on install. Ensure not to enable SNI (server name indicator) for mail service. This is because SNI is suitable for multiple hostnames with the same IP address.
If your certificate doesn't Reflect immediately, ensure to restart the server for it to work.
Awesome!
Your SSL certificate is installed, and your transition from HTTP to HTTPS has officially been completed.
Visit your site and check out your new modifications to ensure the proper functioning of HTTPS/SSL.
How to protect yourself if your frequent site is not SSL certified
All sites on the net are currently supposed to be SSL certified, but if your favourite site isn't, there is a way around it.
First of all, as a web user, if that site isn't certified, there are the best ways to protect yourself.
Never, we emphasise, NEVER purchase anything from that site or disclose your personal or business data no matter the situation. Non-encrypted messages are exchanged at maximum risk.
In the case where you want something to be done about this site's status, email the web host manager or anyone you feel can configure the site. Let them understand the importance of getting their site certified because most website owners have absolutely no idea.
On the other hand, if you still can't help continually visiting the site, get a VPN or an EFF Electronic Frontier's Foundation. The EFF aids encryption of information transmitted across a browser. If a site isn't encrypted, this could be a great aid.
The most important lesson from this article is to learn how to protect yourself as a web user/owner.
Ensure to check out for sites that are SSL certified and limit the amount of personal information you give out on forums.
Know that your site’s security status doesn't only matter to you and your site visitors but Google too.
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